Approximately 150 guests attended the first annual Leadership Institute Luncheon at the Union League Club of Chicago. The student speaker, sophomore Mary Berg, Regina Dominican's 2014 HOBY Ambassador, spoke about the importance of a Regina Dominican education and the many opportunities students have to develop their leadership abilities.
Connie K. Duckworth, founder and CEO of ARZU Studio Hope, was the keynote speaker. ARZU, which means hope, is an innovative model for sustainable poverty alleviation that empowers Afghan women through artisan-based employment, education, and healthcare. Duckworth's work in Afghanistan demonstrates what perseverance and determination can accomplish and she embodies the power and importance of women's leadership in solving the world's challenges. It is this commitment to global citizenship and fostering strong women leaders, which lies at the heart of the Leadership Institute's mission.